Meet Brandee Harrington

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Brandee Harrington. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Brandee below.

Brandee , so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Entering the commercial real estate (CRE) world as a double minority has been a journey of unique challenges and triumphs. In this industry, I quickly discovered that my diverse perspective wasn’t a hurdle but a secret weapon.

I realized that communication became my superpower. Breaking down ideas and negotiating deals demanded clarity that went beyond language—it required connecting with people on a human level. Sharing my unique viewpoint opened doors to innovative solutions that others might have missed.

Resilience played a starring role. Overcoming biases and stereotypes in a predominantly homogeneous field taught me to turn challenges into stepping stones. Each hurdle became an opportunity to redefine what success looks like in CRE as a double minority.

What truly helped me and still is helping me is mentorship. It has become my compass. Learning from those who navigated similar paths provided insights that textbooks couldn’t offer. These connections weren’t just about professional guidance; they were about building a community that champions diversity and inclusion.

My journey in CRE isn’t just about personal success; it’s a commitment to reshaping an industry. Being the only one in the room isn’t a limitation—it’s an invitation to redefine what’s possible. I’m not just thriving; I’m paving the way for a more dynamic, inclusive future in commercial real estate.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I wear multiple hats in the commercial real estate space, and in addition, I am also an author. As the founder of COINZ® Legacy Keeper, my mission is to empower individuals and families to secure their financial futures and protect the unique stories that define them.

COINZ® Legacy Keeper is more than just a business; it’s a commitment to fostering financial well-being and leaving a lasting legacy. As a broker and investor, I’ve personally witnessed the transformative power of home ownership in shaping vibrant communities. It’s beyond acquiring property; it’s about establishing roots and building a foundation for future generations.

What sets COINZ® Legacy Keeper apart is our dedication to documenting and safeguarding the crucial information that forms the backbone of each family’s story. Drawing from my own experience, I’ve seen the profound impact that a well-documented legacy can have on loved ones.

For those eager to embark on their journey of financial security and legacy preservation, I invite you to explore www.mycoinzjournal.com. Here, you’ll discover valuable resources and insights on protecting your finances and building a lasting legacy for generations to come.

At the heart of everything we do is the belief that a secure home is the cornerstone of a thriving family and community. I’m excited to continue this journey, making a positive impact one legacy at a time.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey in the commercial real estate (CRE) space, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as particularly impactful:

You must be: Adaptable and Resilience.
CRE is a dynamic and ever-changing industry. Economic fluctuations, market trends, and unexpected challenges are inherent. Being adaptable and resilient allowed me to navigate uncertainties, learn from setbacks, and pivot when necessary.

You must have Effective Communication. The ability to communicate effectively is crucial in CRE, whether negotiating deals, presenting proposals, or building relationships. Clear communication fosters trust, streamlines transactions, and enhances collaboration.

Lastly you must understand market research. Informed decision-making is at the core of successful CRE ventures. Understanding market trends, property values, and economic indicators enables strategic investment and development choices.

For professionals seeking a career, I recommend a commitment to continuous learning, active networking, and seeking diverse experiences. This approach ensures staying abreast of industry developments, building valuable connections, and gaining exposure to various facets of the market.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I find myself overwhelmed, my go-to strategy for calming anxious thoughts is spending time with God and immersing myself in His word. Reading aloud what He says about being overwhelmed and anxious brings me peace.

As I commit to journaling and studying His word day and night, it allows me to surrender my concerns and seek guidance. Engaging with scripture not only brings comfort but also imparts valuable insights and wisdom that often offer solutions to challenges.

Additionally, I prioritize these moments for their contribution to overall well-being. Whenever I’m facing anxiousness or overwhelm, I’m reminded of Philippians 4:6-7, which encourages us not to be anxious about anything but, in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, to present our requests to God. The promise in these verses is profound—the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Whether in moments of solitude, prayer, or meditation on the word, or seeking support from my community of faith, these practices help me regain focus and resilience in the face of overwhelming situations.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Carl “The Media MD” Ankrum Jamese Wiley

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